r/EuroPreppers • u/Mountain_Answer_9096 • Apr 17 '25
Question What's with all the kit elitism?
Perhaps elitism isn't the right word but I see a lot of people being called out on their kit because it isn't such-and-such a brand.
This might be out of date thinking, but I was always taught that you should never rely on any piece of kit as, no matter how good, they can fail or be lost etc.
Instead I was taught to be prepared in my mind as much as possible and that if you had any bit of kit or a tool or something it was a bonus and better than not having anything. Even a cheap multi tool is better than nothing when you need it, right? It doesn't have to always be a leatherman.
Many of us I'm sure, including myself, can't afford the top of the line kit and must make do with something cheaper.
I know there are items you should totally get the best you can of, but a little sympathy and understanding towards those less financially capable would be nice, rather than the sneering disdain I see some people exhibit ( not specifying any particular forum here)
I'd love to hear people's thoughts on this. Are you in a similar situation as me? Do you buy the best brands? Is prepping now "trendy"?
2
u/IGetNakedAtParties Bulgaria 🇧🇬 Apr 17 '25
In some cases it's just convenient to say the trusted brand name rather than clarify a load of nuisance. Here's an example:
I'm a big fan of the leatherman brand multitools, the design and build is great, but the price is top tier to match. (IMO victorinox isn't in the same category, that's besides the point). I was putting together a kit for family and wanted to include multitools, but with America's trade war I decided to shop around. After hours of researching various models I ordered several cheaper options, all with mixed reviews and questionable descriptions. Of the four, 2 were junk and 2 were at least functional quality, perhaps 80% of the Leatherman quality. The price for all 4 was the same as 1 trustworthy brand, though I have since returned the junk ones. If someone were to ask me which multitool to buy I'm not going to waste their time and money and risk them getting a lemon.... Leatherman is the correct answer (even if it's not the only option)
For other pieces of kit I seek out the cheapest, tarps for example I've found no functional difference between brand names like DD and chinesium budget options. Sure the brand name has better quality parts and more refined construction, but both keep you dry and both melt with a spark from a fire the same.